Chapter Text
Marianne could not help but fidget. Ever since she wrote her letter to Christopher she had been re-thinking every line until she was certain he would ask to end their courtship once he returned. What had she been thinking to speak so openly of their apparent shared love to Mr. Willoughby when they had never uttered those words to each other. Oh she knew why she had done it. It was to wipe that stupid look off his face. So superior. So assured of his success in blackening her beloved Christophers name. She would not have it!
However now that the flame of indignation had calmed she worried about how Christopher would view her words. Would he feel disgust at her foolishness in believing in Mr. Willoughby’s goodness? Would he feel disrespected that she had uttered claims not yet true? Would he feel that she had taken more liberties than was proper by sending him a letter when she had spoken against Mr. Willoughby’s lack of propriety? Her thoughts tormented her all through the night and she knew her eyes bore the brunt of her sleeplessness. Dark circles stood out against her pale skin. She had tried to alleviate them with cold water but to no avail. She could not even eat any breakfast, her stomach was so tied up in knots. She feared she would be despondent until she saw Christopher again.
She was so tired and so worried that she missed, entirely, the sound of a horse rapidly approaching Barton. The next thing she knew the very object of her thoughts was being announced.
“Colonel Brandon for you ma’am.” Their maid spoke gently.
“Colonel Brandon!” She rose quickly to greet him. Standing so quickly after a sleepless night and very little food had her rather lightheaded and so she swayed on her feet.
He was instantly at her side holding her close to him to steady her before lowering her to the sofa.
“Marianne!? Are you well?” He was breathless as though he had run all the way here from London.
She was so disconcerted that she reached up to touch his cheek.
“Christopher? Is this a dream? You were not meant to return to me until tomorrow.” She took in his every feature. Windswept hair, eyes bright, cheeks red . . cheeks that she was currently touching! She gasped and went to pull her hand back before it was swiftly covered by one of his own. He gripped her hand and pressed it more firmly against his cheek. She could feel the roughness from his stubble and the heat of his skin. He closed his eyes as he nuzzled further into her hand.
“I am here Marianne. I could not spend another day apart from you, not after I read your letter.” His eyes remained closed but they opened once he finished speaking.
Her eyes grew wide. He had read her letter and come back to her. “You . . ah . . my letter . . it did not . . upset you?” She stuttered. She was certain if she had slept the night before she would be better able to articulate her thoughts. As it was she would simply have to muddle through.
“The only thing that has upset me is that you were inopportune by an unworthy man. It upset me that you were ever in his presence.” He paused. “The rest of your letter did the exact opposite of upset me.” His free hand which was not covering her own had risen to twirl a stray curl around his finger. Her own cheeks were now red enough to match his.
“Marianne. Please tell me you spoke truly when you wrote what was in your heart? That . . I was the one in your heart.” His eyes were shimmering with great emotion. She wasted not a second.
“I spoke truly Christopher. I feel as if I have loved you since the moment we met. There is no greater man in my eyes than you.” Her sight blurred as tears filled her eyes but she saw enough to know that he was smiling.
“Oh Marianne, my love.” His voice was so soft.
Her tears slipped down her face even as her smile grew. “I love you Christopher Brandon.”
“As I love you Marianne Dashwood.”
He leaned forward and for a moment she thought he might kiss her. Instead he rested his forehead against hers and they both closed their eyes.
“Please, please tell me you will be mine Marianne. My wife, my partner. It would be the honor of my life to be bound to you. I will spend every day striving to be worthy of your love.” His breath was hot against her face.
“Yes, yes Christopher I will be your wife. But you are wrong if you think you are not worthy. You are the best man I have ever known. If you feel you must strive to be worthy of my love then I must, in turn, strive to be worthy of yours.” She spoke fervently.
He chuckled and she felt warm all over at the sound. “We are well matched then.” She could practically feel his grin.
“As I have already broken every rule of propriety so far, perhaps I may break one more?” He whispered as one hand came up to cup her face.
“May I kiss you my love?”
“Christopher Brandon, as long as I live you will never need to ask that question for my answer will always be yes.” She had barely finished speaking before his lips were on hers.
Soft but firm he kissed her tenderly. She wanted to press herself even further against him but settled on allowing her fingers to stray past his cheek and brush the hair at his neck. He let out a muffled groan at the sensation and all of sudden her whole body was on fire. The kiss turned heated for a few seconds before Christopher pulled back abruptly.
The couple sat panting as they faced each other.
“I hope we can marry quickly.” She teased as she fought to slow her heart rate.
Her statement broke the lingering electricity between them and he let out a sharp laugh. Holding onto her hand once more he echoed her sentiments.
They both seemed to realize that while they had been left alone so far that was unlikely to continue and they separated to a more appropriate distance. Not a moment too soon for her mama walked into the room eager to welcome the Colonel back.
“Colonel, we are so happy you have returned safely. How was your time in London?”
“It was very successful.” He smiled at Marianne conspiratorially even though she was unsure as to what he was referring.
“Oh?” Her mama prompted.
“Yes you see I was in London to acquire a particular piece.” He reached into his pocket to remove a small jewelry box. Mariannes breath caught in her throat as he turned towards her.
“I had hoped to be able to present this to you very soon. I am overjoyed that such a situation has occurred sooner than I dared dream.”
He opened the box to reveal the most stunning ring Marianne had ever seen. It was a gold ring with spinel leaf detailing on the sides. The center stone was a beautiful pale pink that sparkled in the sunlight.
“Oh Christopher! It’s beautiful!” Her voice was hushed, emotion clogging her throat.
He gently removed it from the blue velvet it was nestled in and reverently placed it onto her finger.
The couple shared a loving smile before turning at the sniffling sound coming from the other side of the room.
Her mama was dabbing at her eyes with her handkerchief.
“Forgive me Mrs. Dashwood that I did not seek your permission before proposing to Marianne. I can only say that the love I feel for your daughter blinded me to all else except securing her hand as quickly as possible.”
“No apology is necessary Colonel Brandon. You have both my permission and my blessing. Welcome to the family.”
Marianne felt renewed tears at the love her mother showed for her future husband. Her husband had spent so long alone that she was thrilled to be able to provide him with a loving family.
He nodded his head in gratitude.
“Now I will have a brother who can teach me how to sword fight!” The loud voice startled them all.
“Margaret!” Her mother chastised.
Her beloved only laughed. “I am happy to be seen as useful to you Miss Margaret.”
Her younger sister bestowed a very regal nod in response as though she were doing him some great service by allowing him the opportunity to teach her to fight with a sword.
Joy bubbled up from within and Marianne could not contain the happy laugh that broke free.
Her elder sister had joined them as well and was offering Christopher her own congratulations and welcome.
“I am glad you have returned so swiftly Colonel Brandon. Marianne was simply despondent without you here.” She turned a cheeky smile towards her younger sister.
Marianne blushed heavily to have her pinning declared for him to hear of.
His eyes twinkled merrily until he seemed to notice the dark circles marring her cheeks.
“Have you not been sleeping well?” He asked gently.
“Oh.” She ducked her head. “It was only that after I wrote you that letter I was unsure of your reaction. I’m afraid my mind kept me up all night imagining the worst possible scenario. I was convinced you would want nothing further to do with me.” She shrugged in a self deprecating manner.
“Never my love! Of you I can only think kindly for your handling of such a difficult situation.” His eyes were burning with the intent to convey his regard for her.
She felt the last of the weight on her shoulders disappear entirely. Even though they were now engaged she did not want him to have any reservations about her. It soothed her to know he was not at all disappointed in her conduct.
His eyes grew determined. “I shall see to it that you are no longer bothered by that man. I believe myself and Sir John will pay him a visit. He should know that you are not without protection.”
She wanted to protest but did not dare undermine him. She knew Willoughby would keep coming back if he thought he could get away with it. She hoped that even though he obviously felt distaste for her fiance he would fear him enough to leave them alone.
“Please be careful.” Was all she said.
He nodded his consent.
The remainder of his time at Barton was spent making preliminary wedding decisions. He did not tarry long for he wanted Marianne to rest. Now that she was secure in his affections she knew she would sleep soundly.
~
Marianne had indeed been very tired. She went to bed and slept all the way through to the next morning. Waking up to the bright sun she rose feeling refreshed indeed. Although she did languish in bed for a few extra minutes to admire her ring in the sunlight. The center stone sent cascades of rainbows around her room making her smile brightly. She dressed for the day and joined her family to break their fast. Her mama informed her that they had been invited to spend the day at Sir John's estate. Mrs. Jennings would be there as well and of course Colonel Brandon was also invited. It would be the perfect opportunity to announce their betrothal. Marianne knew Mrs. Jennings would be crowing about her great success but she was too happy to care.
This time when she arrived her fiance was waiting to hand her down. She lit up as soon as she noticed him outside the carriage door.
“Good morning Marianne.” His eyes twinkled.
“Good morning my love.” She replied.
He offered her his arm and they entered the house to the loud proclamations of Mrs. Jennings.
“Oh I just knew they would make a splendid match for he is rich and she is handsome! Didn’t I tell you Sir John that they would be perfect for each other.” She tittered.
“Indeed Mrs. Jennings a delightful match. Congratulations old boy!” He shook Christophers hand firmly.
Marianne could only smile widely at the entire exchange. In the years that followed she would remember all these wonderful people fondly for they had indeed contributed to her happiness. The group settled and wedding talk filled the air. Mrs. Jennings was of course of the opinion that a large wedding was required but both she and the Colonel advocated for a more intimate affair. She had no need for grand displays and her fiance was a rather shy man. No, they would be very happy with a small ceremony attended only by close friends and family. She made a point of vociferously including Sir John and Mrs. Jennings. The two puffed up like twin peacocks at her pronouncement.
With the size of the ceremony firmly decided it did not take long to settle the rest of the details. They would have the banns read and wed immediately after.
Her fiance nudged her side and gestured to the gardens they had walked in that first day. After receiving permission from her mama the couple set out to enjoy the warm morning.
“Are you happy my dear?” Christopher asked lightly.
“Oh Christopher, the only thing that could possibly make me happier would be to be married to you right this moment.” She squeezed his arm.
“I agree my dear. The weeks will drag on I am sure but there is no need for us to be completely deprived in the meantime.” Taking a quick glance over his shoulder he pulled on her arm so they ducked behind a few trees.
“Christopher!” She squealed.
“Hush my darling. We do not want to draw attention to ourselves.” He smiled.
Spinning her around so her back rested gently on the tree trunk he leaned forward to play with yet another wayward curl.
“Have I ever told you how much I love your curls?” He said.
“You have not. I take it they are something you find acceptable?” She fought to keep her mien serious.
“More than acceptable. I find them absolutely enchanting.”
“Hmm. And is there anything else about my person you find enchanting?” She was mostly teasing but she really was curious.
“I find everything about you enchanting but let me think.” He furrowed his brow in mock concentration.
“Your eyes are rather striking. I remember the first time I saw them I thought they sparkled like a thousand diamonds.”
She could feel the blush beginning to spread across her cheeks. He shuffled a half step closer.
“Your cheeks are such a lovely color. I am curious as to how deeply I can make you blush.” He moved closer still.
She could hardly believe how bold he was being and yet it sent a thrill through her.
“Is that so?” She whispered. Her breath was coming faster as he moved closer.
“Your lips are the most beautiful shade of pink. And I know from personal experience how soft they are.” His body was so close she could feel the heat coming off of him.
“You experienced their softness yesterday. Perhaps you should clarify whether they are soft today as well.” She could not stop herself from leaning forward hoping to provoke a kiss.
“Do you think so? Perhaps you are correct.” He carefully lifted one hand to rub his thumb across her lips.
“Soft indeed.” His face was almost touching her own.
“Christopher.” She begged.
“Yes my love.”
“Kiss me.” She pleaded.
She barely finished speaking before his lips cut off her plea. He stepped even closer and she delighted in feeling his whole body pressed against hers. Warm and hard it was exhilarating. He was such a strong man and she felt so dainty and petite when pressed against him. He nibbled lightly on her lips and she gasped. He used the opportunity to deepen the kiss. His one hand gripped her waist while the other carded through her hair. All she could do was hold on as he ravaged her with sensation.
The need to breathe overcame her and she broke away to pant for air. Her fiance, it seemed, had no intention of stopping and his lips dipped down to kiss her neck. She could not stop the moan that slipped out. Her fiance let out a growl and re-doubled his efforts. His mouth was hot and wet as it worked on her. She gripped his shoulder tightly to keep from collapsing to the ground, her legs no longer able to hold her. He seemed to understand her predicament for he leaned his whole body against hers to keep her upright. She felt his desire against her stomach and another moan slipped out. This seemed to be too much as he broke away breathing hard.
He kept his arms around her though he had removed his body from hers. While she lamented the loss of his heat, the distance did allow her to regain her bearings.
“Forgive me Marianne. I lost control of myself. I hope . . I hope I have not offended you with my baser instincts.” She could tell from his voice buried in her shoulder that he was ashamed of himself for his lack of control and so she sought to reassure him.
“Please don’t apologize, my love. I . . know I should not say anything . . for it is not appropriate for a maiden to feel such things . . but I . . very much enjoyed that and . . I find myself most eager for when we are husband and wife and no longer have to stop.” She stuttered a bit before rushing out the rest.
There was a muffled groan before he mumbled. “You will be the death of my Marianne.”
She could only giggle in reply and this brought some levity to the moment which helped them to regain their composure. Stepping back he swept his eyes over her flushed face. She saw nothing but love and desire in his gaze.
“We had best return to our walk so that our cheeks might calm down before we rejoin the others. I do not want anyone accusing me of ruining you.” He winked.
She laughed in reply and they proceeded to take the long way around the garden. By the time they rejoined the others their countenances were back to normal. If it were not for the wink Sir John sent Christopher Marianne almost would have believed they had managed to evade detection. Thankfully no one made any comments and the day ended with promises to meet again soon.
~
The rest of their engagement passed without incident and the wedding of Colonel Brandon and Miss Marianne Dashwood was a beautiful affair. Marianne glowed on the arm of her husband and the Colonel could not contain his proud smile. The couple remained just long enough not to give offense before they departed for Delaford anxious as they were to be alone.
Marianne settled well into her position as Mistress of Delaford and she was a welcome helpmate to her husband. The two flourished with each other and the manor was teaming with life even before the pitter patter of little feet were heard. It should not be a surprise that because of their love and passion the couple was blessed with several children. Three girls and two boys were swiftly added to their family. Marianne glowed with each pregnancy and Christopher dotted on every new babe.
There was no unpleasantness from Willoughby after a quick visit by the Colonel and Sir John. The man was warned to stay away from the Dashwoods and because he was a coward Willoughby did indeed stay away. That is not to say there were no glares or longing glances shot their way whenever our happy couple was in London. Mr. Willoughby never did find a love match of his own, hardly surprising given the man's selfish nature. The Brandons were so happy they never even noticed his looks.
One night more than two decades after they had been wed the couple were laying in their bed together.
“My dear I always wondered . . what was it that drew you to me the day we met? I know that I was enamored with you but as I recall you crossed the room to stand before me that very first day.” Her husband's voice was curious.
“I can hardly say my love. Perhaps I had dreamed of you. Perhaps I knew you in another life. All I can tell you is the moment our eyes met I was yours.” She leaned up to smile down at her husband bestowing him another slow kiss.
“I feel as though we were always meant to be together.” She settled back into his side. “I love you Christopher Brandon.”
“As I love you Marianne Brandon.”